• It is illegal to use a hand-held mobile phone whilst driving. You could face a £60 fine and 3 penalty points. Research has shown that you are 4 times more likely to have a crash whilst using a mobile phone at the wheel. Get a hands-free kit or wait until you have safely parked the car and switched off the engine before using the phone
• Satellite Navigation Systems aka ‘Sat Navs’ have the potential to ease congestion, reduce fuel consumption and improve road safety. but be sure to listen to instructions rather than look at the screen.
• Consuming food and drink at the wheel doubles your risk of having a crash. Try to avoid this by planning breaks and stops along the way
• Driver fatigue accounts for around one fifth of accidents on major roads, and is responsible for around 300 deaths per year. Make sure you are in a fit state to drive, both mentally and physically. Ensure you take at least a 15 minute break every 2 hours and if you need a rest, stop in a safe place

There are also steps you can take to improve your awareness on the road and sharpen your motoring skills with Pass Plus or the Institute of Advanced Motoring which has the added bonus of lowering your insurance premiums. The Highway Code is also available online, a handy resource for brushing up your road knowledge.